Combination Welder

Job Description

Job Description

Shipyard Combination Welder (SMAW) – 3G & 4G

Position Title: Combination Welder (SMAW) – 3G/4G
Location: Shipyard Facility
Reports To: Welding Supervisor / Production Foreman
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hourly

Position Summary

The Shipyard Combination Welder is responsible for performing structural welding and fitting using Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) in 3G (vertical) and 4G (overhead) positions on marine vessels and components. This role supports new construction, repair, and retrofit projects in a fast-paced shipyard environment. The ideal candidate can both fit and weld , producing high-quality work that meets marine and structural code requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform SMAW (stick) welding in 3G (vertical) and 4G (overhead) positions
• Measure, cut, bevel, and fit structural steel and piping components
• Align and assemble parts including hull plates, bulkheads, frames, stiffeners, and foundations
• Perform tack welds and final welds to complete assemblies
• Read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and technical drawings
• Ensure proper fit-up, alignment, and spacing prior to welding
• Set up and operate welding and fitting equipment safely and efficiently
• Select proper electrodes (e.g., 6010, 7018) and machine settings based on material and thickness
• Grind, gouge, and clean welds as required
• Inspect fit-up and welds to ensure compliance with specifications and quality standards
• Work in confined spaces, at heights, and in various shipyard conditions
• Follow all shipyard safety procedures and OSHA regulations
• Work closely with supervisors, inspectors, and other trades to complete projects on schedule

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of combination welding and fitting experience in a shipyard or heavy industrial environment
• Proven experience welding in 3G and 4G SMAW positions
• Ability to fit and weld independently with minimal supervision
• Strong understanding of blueprints, weld symbols, and layout work
• Experience working with carbon steel and marine-grade materials
• Knowledge of proper weld prep, joint fit-up, and alignment
• Ability to pass a drug screening (required)

Preferred Qualifications

• Current AWS certification (if applicable)
• Experience with air carbon arc gouging
• Previous marine or shipbuilding experience

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights
• Ability to stand, kneel, bend, and work in overhead positions for extended periods
• Comfortable working in hot, noisy, and outdoor industrial environments

Work Environment

• Industrial shipyard setting
• Exposure to heat, sparks, fumes, loud noise, and heavy equipment
• Required use of PPE including welding hood, respirator (if required), gloves, hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, PFD (as required), ear plugs, and fire-retardant clothing (FRC)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience

Premier Staffing is a full-service staffing and employment agency focused on providing industrial, manufacturing, construction, oilfield and maintenance support in the Acadiana region. We provide skilled and reliable employees for blue-collar job openings as well as administrative positions.

Company Description

Premier Staffing is a full-service staffing and employment agency focused on providing industrial, manufacturing, construction, oilfield and maintenance support in the Acadiana region. We provide skilled and reliable employees for blue-collar job openings as well as administrative positions.\r\n\r\nSince 1990, Premier Staffing has been building long-lasting relationships with area businesses, providing a range of employment solutions to make Cajun Country a thriving, prosperous place to live.